Abstract

ENHANCEMENT OF LYCOPENE AND Β-
CAROTENE PRODUCTION IN CHERRY TOMATO FRUITS (SOLANUM LYCOPERSICUM L. VAR. CERASIFORME) BY USING RED AND BLUE LIGHT TREATMENT

Calvin Lo, Robert Manurung, Rizkita Rachmi Esyanti

Cherry tomatoes, Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme, are known as sources of antioxidants, which are beneficial to prevent several diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular, etc. Lycopene and β-carotene, natural red and orange pigment, are the major carotenoid antioxidants in tomato fruits. The synthesis of lycopene and β-carotene is a light-regulated reaction, which mediated by phytochrome and cryptochrome. The aims of this study were to determine the optimal spectrum of light to enhance lycopene, β- a